Iowa winters are very hard on people and animals.  We have an unheated barn which isn't ideal in Iowa.  Winter seemed to hit earlier than normal this year, we've been dealing w/a lot of snow and ice since after Thanksgiving.  In addition, it hasn't gotten above freezing to melt any of it off....not fun~!

We've been dealing w/frozen water bowls for almost a month making Deanna's water chores very difficult and not a fun task!!  Raising babies this time of year is pure luck!  If you can get a doe to pull enough hair the babies will be fine but we find many times that doesn't happen.  We do move does into mom's basement (a sore subject w/her!) to raise some winter litters.  I have to supply her with a large supply of Yankee Candles, which i am more than happy to do!!!  Thanks mom for all you do!!!

This time of year all my rabbits seem to prime out there coats, just what i don't need since most shows shut down in November and dont' start back up until February!  One thing i do enjoy about this time of year, is since it's soooo cold out there you dont' spend much time looking at upcoming juniors so when you do look at them they look great and you are sooo surprised to find a gem in the ice!!!  Also, tattooing this time of year is GREAT!!!  Most don't move or jump much since their ears are quite cold, Deanna is happy about that!:)

I hope everyone has a great holiday season and I encourage you to share your ideas and success on raising rabbits during the winter months!!

Maple